Travel & Hotspots

THE 5 COOLEST EUROPEAN BEACH HOTELS

I’m sure I recently won you all over with my post about Formentera (Ibiza’s stylish baby sister). But what I forgot to mention is that some of the worlds best beach hotels are located here too. And in a couple of other fantastic areas in Europe.

1. Gecko Beach Club (Formentera)

Nothing over the top, but: the hotel is located on Formentera and that says plenty. Because Formentera is everything (check it out again here). The hotel is right across from a beautiful beach, although they obviously also have a pool if that has your preference. Daybeds, a restaurant for super romantic dinners (with your feet in the sand), cocktails and yoga lessons for you to attend. Try booking the Beach Suite. The view is phenomenal.

2. Vila Joya (Algarve)

I’ve never been here but MY GOD I need to go ASAP. The light at the boutique resort is already stunning enough so imagine what the bedrooms and the rest of the hotel look like. The rooms almost all have a view of the gardens and the ocean. If you’re lucky – or willing to spend a bit more – you can have your own private terrace too. Oh, and after a stroll through their gorgeous garden you’ll find yourself on their beautiful ‘sheltered’ beach. Including restaurant with two Michelin stars run by top chef Dieter Koschina. You know what might be best of all about this place? The atmosphere is so approachable.

3. Ekies Resort (Vourvourou Bay, Sithonia)

Yes, sounds somewhat Egyptian, but it’s Greek and it’s close to the Greek island Halkidiki. This hotel’s beach is very appropriate for people who don’t like big waves. Hence a great place to bring your kids to too. The brand new family suites are brilliant and include private pools. And let’s not forget about all the food and the styling of the rooms and bar and restaurants (beachy, colorful, relaxing, approachable, design-y).

” It’s Italian, movie-like filled with family styled guesthouses in stunning historic houses in faded colors”

4. Riva del Sole (Sicily)

Look, heading to Sicily is a party on its own. The food is fantastic, the sea is fantastic, the temperature is fantastic, the towns are fantastic, long story short: worthy of a visit. Trick question is: where do you stay? How about the romantic Riva del Sole hotel in the historic town Cefalu. Easy to get too, not overly luxurious, but right by the beach in the coolest town.

5. La Malà (Cinque Terre)

This is the sweetest most authentic Italian hotel in the romantic city of Vernazza. It’s Italian, movie-like filled with family styled guesthouses in stunning historic houses in faded colors. La Malà is located in the charming antique Ligurian house and every room has a beautiful view. Plus: it’s only a five minute walk from the beach.